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Overview

Even one-night stands deserve a second chance in New York Times bestselling author Rachel Van Dyken’s novel of sporting desire.

What else can a virgin do when she’s ditched at the altar? Seattle heiress Mackenzie Dupont is treating herself to a single-girl honeymoon in Mexico and a desire to relinquish her innocence to a gorgeous one-night stand. Fake names. True pleasure. But when she wakes up alone, Mackenzie realizes just how much anger is left in her broken heart.

Suffering a tragic personal loss, pro soccer player Slade Rodriguez has his reasons for vanishing without a goodbye. Right or wrong, he’s blaming the beautiful and infuriating stranger he never wants to see again. They’re both in for a shock when Mackenzie shows up as his new personal assistant. And they both have a lot to learn about each other. Because they share more than they could possibly know, including a common enemy who’s playing his own games. And he’s not afraid to get dirty.

Now there’s only one way Mackenzie and Slade can win: to trust in each other and to stop hiding from the lies they’ve told, the secrets they’ve kept, the mistakes they’ve made, and the attraction that still burns between them.

Product Details

About the Author

Rachel Van Dyken is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and #1 New York Times bestselling author known for regency romances, contemporary romances, and her love of coffee and Swedish Fish. Rachel’s also recently inked a deal for her Wingmen Inc. series—The Matchmaker’s Playbook and The Matchmaker’s Replacement—to be made into movies.

A fan of The Bachelor and the Seattle Seahawks (not necessarily in that order), Rachel lives in Idaho with her husband, a super cute toddler son who keeps her on her toes, and two boxers. Make sure you check out her site, www.RachelVanDykenauthor.com, and follow her on Twitter (@RachVD).

Editorial Reviews

12/03/2018Straitlaced heiress Mackenzie “Mack” DuPont falls for pro soccer player Slade Rodriguez in this seductive yet sweet intro to the Red Card contemporary sports romance series, set in Seattle. Months after being jilted at the altar, Mack goes in search of adventure and meets the sexy Slade, whom she doesn’t recognize despite his fame. Using fake identities, they spend a glorious night together, only for her to awaken to an empty bed and no sign of the man who stole her heart—and took her virginity. Slade’s father’s death has left him bitter and broken. When Mack’s manager hires Slade as Mack’s assistant, Slade thinks Mack is stalking him and immediately shows her his bad side, trying to get her to quit. Mack will not let another man push her around, so she stays on. As she tries to help him heal, they grow closer, but their love is tested when both their greedy exes plot against them, turning their newfound peace into a media frenzy. Van Dyken (the Liars Inc. series) mixes comic relief with personal growth, making this catchy romance irresistible. Agent: Erica Silverman, Trident Media Group. (Mar.)

Publishers Weekly

★ 03/01/2019

When Mackenzie DuPont is jilted at the altar by childhood best friend and romantic "foregone conclusion" Alton, she's convinced she's lost the only person who really understood her. Feeling adrift, she embarks on their honeymoon trip to Puerto Vallarta alone. Destiny seats her next to Slade Rodriguez, who is traveling solo for similarly grim reasons. He's running from his troubles, including an unfaithful partner, and leaving his cushy spot on the Chelsea football team in the UK for Seattle. An emergency landing brings the pair closer, physically and figuratively. Neither tells the whole truth about their identities, as they're too willing to let the thrill of this anonymous one-night stand take the helm. But tragedy strikes and separates the two, souring their tryst and rendering their reunion as boss and assistant entirely unwelcome on both sides. Eventually, Slade comes to terms with his destructive grief and unfounded blame, and Mackenzie learns to let in the best (and briefest) thing she's ever had. Van Dyken's (The Matchmaker's Playbook) prose is absorbing, and readers will find themselves rooting for Mackenzie and Slade individually and together. Side plots of Slade's community service with kids and his rivalry-turned-begrudging friendship with a teammate bring levity to realistic depictions of dealing with intense loss. VERDICT An enjoyable romp that blends sex with soul-searching, as Mackenzie's and Slade's attempts to outrun their problems send them crashing into each other. Recommended for collections seeking erotica with a significant emotional arc.

Library Journal

2019-02-04

A European soccer superstar and a wine heiress have an unforgettable weekend in Puerto Vallarta, but when real life resumes, their happily-ever-after is in for an uphill battle.

Both suffering from heartbreak, Mackenzie DuPont and Slade Rodriguez meet on the plane to Puerto Vallarta. Their trips are supposed to give them both time to heal from their partners' betrayals, but they end up having a steamy affair instead. When, in the middle of the night, Slade gets the terrible news that his father has died, he disappears without a trace. Since Mackenzie and Slade gave each other fake names, there are no hopes they'll have a reunion. A month later, Mackenzie takes a job with the Blue Service Assistant Company, unable to go back to her family's business just yet since her former fiance still works there. She doesn't expect her first client to be Slade, especially when it seems like all traces of the tender, passionate man she met in Puerto Vallarta are long gone. Instead, Slade has turned into an angry, bitter shell of a man, blaming Mackenzie for the fact that he didn't call his father on the night he died. Bursting with tension and a heaping dose of melodrama, Slade and Mackenzie's path to a happily-ever-after feels very much like a soap opera. Not only do they have to contest with Slade's grief and Mackenzie's trust issues, but there are several outside forces trying to keep them apart. While over-the-top with its scheming exes and frequent masculine posturing, this one promises to be a compulsive, engrossing romance for the right readers. However, the constant emotional whiplash requires patience and a strong tolerance for contrived, manufactured drama.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

Well this Red Card new series started with a big bang, nothing prepared me for this story. I love Rachel Van Dyken books, but this took me by surprise in a very good way. Slade and Mackenzie are amazing! Being left at the altar Mack decides to take the honeymoon alone, there he meets a sexy stranger and a honeymoon romance fling gets going. When they thought they will never meet again, well let's just say that life throws you a curveball from time to time.

TheHarleqiun

4 months ago

Oh my, this book! It had me from the very beginning, with its emotionally charged, heartbreaking introduction of Mackenzie in the prologue that had me immediately wanting a happily ever after for her, and wanting to see this road of self discovery for her. Followed immediately by a dramatic, action filled first chapter that sets the introduction of Mackenzie and Slade and the beginning of their connection. Then you’ll spend the next half of the book wanting to throw the book at Slade for his 180 behavior change because like Mackenzie, he’s got his own emotional baggage to wade through so they can fight for each other. The comedic gold between Slade and Matt as well as between Slade and Jagger makes up for it. Some of my favorite scene were courtesy of a cute pup named Alfie, that had me laughing till tears leaked out. That’s Ms. Van Dyken’s writing for you. It’s an emotional roller coaster that will have you wanting to throw the book down and wanting to walk away it’s so charged, but you can’t walk away for long because you NEED to know what’s going to happen.
There are so many different relationship dynamics in this book that are interconnected, that weave one amazing story, and it leaves you wanting more and eager to see what happens with the rest of the characters that we’ve been introduced to.

Lit_Litehosue

5 months ago

When Mackenzie Dupont gets left at the alter without a groom her world as she knows it changes. She decides go on her honeymoon trip by herself and meets Hugo (who wants to give your real name to a stranger who you plan to just have some fun with. Slade and Mackenzie's story is a lot of fun and steamy as heck in spots. They won't have an easy road, but then what fun would that be. Risky Play has a good story-line and great characters that you want to hang out with and get to know even more.
I hope to see more books in this series and from this author.

BeckyRendon

5 months ago

Risky Play is the best kind of revenge. It's karma without help. It's just desserts. It's a full circle complete with black eye. So I'm short it's a smile inducing second chance love story with an arrogant soccer star and an heiress. It's a chance to breath and a chance to live.
With jokes, snark, and one liners that keep you on your toes, RVD brings the funny back. Enjoy Risky Play because I have a feeling soccer is going to only get sexier...(The season/series is just beginning!)

UpAllNightBB

5 months ago

5 Risky Stars!
Review by Lisa
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
Rachel Van Dyken has done it again with Risky Play. This is book 1 in the Red Card series and I can't wait for the next installment.
This is o well written that you just zip right through the story. The story just flows and has its ups and downs, emotional feels, and a bit of mystery.
Just from reading the author's synopsis, how can you not be hooked?
What else can a virgin do when she’s ditched at the altar? Seattle heiress Mackenzie Dupont is treating herself to a single-girl honeymoon in Mexico and has a desire to relinquish her innocence to a gorgeous one-night stand. Fake names. True pleasure. When she wakes up alone, Mackenzie realizes just how much anger is left in her broken heart
And let me tell you, she does not disappoint because the story picks up a few months later and the roller-coaster ride begins on Mackenzie's journey to finding herself.
The chemistry between Slade and Mackenzie just jumps of the page and the banter is spot on to bring in that comic relief.

JeriTRyan

5 months ago

Only Rachel van Dyken. I think that is a fitting way to start my thoughts on Risky Play the latest novel from her. Rachel van Dyken is an author that manages to write deeply developed romance novels that seem to be filled with an equal amount of heartache and fun. I can not even begin to describe what it is that makes reading her books so special. If you liked the Blurb of a book it is almost a given that you will connect with the character. I often find myself laughing at some well-written banter between the characters only to be crying a few pages later.
Risky Play is no different. Mackenzie and Slade are interesting characters. Especially since it is not often that you read a novel with such equally strong personalities (financially and otherwise). The storyline was good and kept me interested while following the characters on their journey towards TRUST. If there would be something to remark it would be that I struggled with Mackenzie’s Dad he was not a great guy in my book for obvious reasons and his change of heart was not so realistic. But while it may not be my number one in the “van Dyken Hit List” (That title seems to be the forever belong to RUIN) I really enjoyed the book.
Side note: I especially loved the setting of the Plot (Seattle).

kstokes

5 months ago

It took me a few pages to get into this book but once I did I didn't want to put it down. This book seems to have it all, it was sad, exciting, sexy, thought provoking and funny. Mackenzie and Slade had great chemistry and I loved the way she stuck up for herself when he was being a jackass! I also enjoyed the family dynamic with Mackenzie and her father and how they respond to outside forces. I hope we get books for Jagger and Matt too! #RiskyPlay

OpheliaOA

6 months ago

Another amazing book by Rachel Van Dyken. I just love all her books. They are always filled with comedy, romance, steamy scenes and filled with amazing characters that you just want to keep reading about. Risky Play was such an addictive read! I started reading this book and I could not make myself put it down. I was hooked from the very beginning and now I feel disappointed that I’ve read it to quickly. I fell in love with Slade and Mackenzie, they are both strong individuals that have been through so much but being together makes them stronger. They realize that being together makes them a better person especially when they know that they both have each other’s backs. Risky Play is a must read and I can’t wait to read the next installment of the Red Card series.
***Received this ARC by NetGalley as an exchange for an honest review.

LisaD

6 months ago

Slade Rodriguez is very handsome and very famous soccer player. Labeled as a player of more than just soccer.
Mackenzie DuPont is a beautiful and strong women. She also is the daughter of a wine mogul and was just left at the alter. Deciding she needs to get away so she goes on what would of been her honeymoon but herself.
I absolutely love this story line. It grabbed my attention right from the beginning and never let go. I had trouble putting it down and stayed up way to late reading it. I love a book that can take you through so many emotions and that’s what this book did, I was happy and laughing, got mad in a few parts, sad in some and even felt kind of sick to my stomach in one part, but I enjoyed the emotional ride all the way to the end. I love how strong Mackenzie is and even though she has had some bad things happen she never gives up. And Slade I love how sexy he is and how when he realizes he is acting like a jerk he truly tries to change and becomes so loving. I also love the other Characters, Matt the agent and Jagger, Slade’s teammate, I am hoping to see another book or two in this series! Another great read by Rachel Van Dyken, one I will definitely be reading again and again and one I Highly recommend!!

ShelleyYoungblood

6 months ago

Rachel Van Dyken has another hit series in the Making with Risky Play, the first book in her Red Card Series. I loved every moment. I was drawn into this incredible world instantly. She created wonderful characters, combustible chemistry and I devoured this story.
Mackenzie and Slade bore deep into my heart and did not let go. I loved their feistiness and ability to be stubborn, yet loving.
Rachel made me laugh. She made me cry. I never wanted this book to end. I would highly recommend this book. I can't wait for more in this series!

Anonymous

6 months ago

This was a great fun read. Mackenzie is left at the alter and Slade had been cheated on my his fiancé. They end up sitting next to each other on a plane and the story is born. It was touching how they brought out the best in each other. Another great romantic comedy by Rachel Van Dyken!

CRISSYM

6 months ago

I devoured this book in one sitting and loved every minute and moment I spent reading it. Risky Play was such a fantastic read with great characters. MacKenzie, Slade, Matt and Jagger are characters you can't help but love and I enjoyed the back and forth banter between all of them. Throw in sports and I'm all in. This read was full of funny, sweet, steamy and all around great moments that will have you laughing out loud more than once. There were touching moments here and there and those were special when they happened. I wished the drama didn't happen with the ex but I knew it was coming, it was all a matter of when and I knew exactly who would be a part of it before it even began. The ending was sweet and wrapped this story up nicely. It definitely left me happy and with a smile on my face. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. Rachel Van Dyken does not disappoint when it comes to her stories and she's one author I recommend to my book loving friends.

6703024

6 months ago

I loved this book! Mackenzie is on the same flight as Slade when an engine goes out. Mack takes matters in her own hands and kisses this stranger. She has been jilted by her fiance and is taking the honeymoon for herself. Slade is taking a break after his ex cheated on him with a fellow soccer player. He is transferring to a team in Seattle. They both give fake names and have a one night stand, when Slade hears that his father has died. Mack decides to take a job before going back to her father's winery. It is Slade's house that she is taking care of. Can they find their way back to each other? This is a must read! 5 stars

courtofbingereading

6 months ago

Risky Play is about Mack and Slade, who share an amazing day together. Mack is trying to get over the embarrassment of being left at the altar. Slade is trying to move on from the betrayal of his teammate hooking up with his fiance--and getting her pregnant. Neither of them is looking for a new romance yet they can’t deny the promising spark and connection between the two of them. Everything is going perfectly until Slade receives a phone call alerting him that his father has died from a heart attack. Slade leaves in the middle of the night without a word, and Mack awakes feeling used and ashamed.
Fast forward 6 months and these two are reunited when Mack shows up for work at none other than Slade’s house. However, it’s anything but smooth sailing for these two. Slade is pissed off at the world for the loss of his father while Mack is still dealing with being left at the altar and her one-night-stand with Slade.
My Complaints:
This is a super quick and easy read--I read it in one night. However, I wasn’t a fan of Slade’s treatment of Mack. I understand he’s grieving and that it’s much easier for him to place the fault on Mack as he was with her all day which caused him to miss a phone call from his dad--the last phone call he ever received from his dad. But, grief isn’t an excuse for his behavior. He treats Mack horribly and never truly makes up for it, in my mind. Mack forgives him too easily.
I also believe that there needs to be more development in their relationship before they throw out the word love. Their whirlwind romance just didn’t seem believable to me. Everything happened so fast, without enough heartfelt scenes to effectively sell the romance.
Lastly, I’m not a fan of the drama the author threw in towards the end of the book to test Slade and Mack’s relationship. I agree that they should be tested, but this curveball came out of nowhere and wasn’t that entertaining.
What I Liked:
As I said earlier, this such an easy, quick read. One thing I love about NA Romance books is that I’m always entertained from start to finish, and they don’t require me to think. I can just mindlessly read for hours, enjoying the story until it inevitably ends. I also really love the relationship between Slade, Jagger, and Matt. Their banter is PERFECTION. I’m a sucker for great banter, so I lived for their scenes together.
Overall:
While I didn’t rate this book super high, I’ll definitely be checking out the next book--especially because I think it’s going to center around Jagger. I did enjoy this book for the most part. I just wasn’t a fan of Slade’s behavior, but other than that I was fully entertained and happy with the book. If you’re looking for a New Adult Romance that will keep you entertained, then I recommend this book. If you’re a fan of insta-romance with a dash of hate to love (more like jerk behavior, though), then this might be the book for you.

Anonymous

6 months ago

5 Star Read
Can I just start by saying that I'm thoroughly ashamed of myself! This is the first Rachel Van Dyken book I've read! Where have I been?! I LOVED THIS!!
From the moment they meet, Mackenzie DuPont and Slade Rodriguez can't get enough of each other! But the one night they spend together ends in disaster and, as a result, Mackenzie wakes to find that Slade has up and left...
I totally fell in love with this story, and the characters (well, except Mackenzie's dad – family should always come first, lol)! This book is one you're not going to be able to put down - It’s an absolutely brilliant read I would highly recommend!

Rainn2978

6 months ago

This is book 1 in the Red Card series. Mackenzie (Mack) DuPont had always thought she knew how her life was going to go. But when she is left at the altar in the middle of her wedding by the man she had spent most of her life being with, she knew she needed to take time for herself and have some fun. So she goes on her honeymoon on her own. And when she meets one the hottest men she has ever seen, she decides to be someone else and give him a different name. Slade Rodriguez is a professional soccer player and is on a much needed break. They both decide to spend the night together, but Slade is called away and Mack wakes alone. But when she decides she needs a change of scene and jobs, she never expects to suddenly be his personal assistant. Or for him to be so angry with her.
This was a great way to start this series out! Mack and Slade seem to be perfect for each other once they make it past their own issues. Reading about them working through their problems and figuring out what they wanted in their lives is great. The only drawback I had was I didn't like the way he treats her when they first meet up again. I get that he was angry but taking it out on someone who has nothing to do with it was a slight turn off for me. But on a whole I truly did like it. And the side characters are just as good. On a whole I did enjoy the read and will definitely read the next books in the series!

ProfessorRomance

6 months ago

I am quickly becoming a HUGE fan of Rachel Van Dyken's. Yes, her romances are sexy, but they have a heart that is oftentimes lost in other romantic stories. This is definitely the case with her newest book, Risky Play. This book is the first book in a new series, The Red Card Book series, centered around players on a soccer team.
This story has a little bit of a second chance, enemies-to-lovers, contemporary romance vibe to it. It follows Mackenzie "Mack," an heiress to a wine conglomerate and Slade, a professional soccer player. They meet when each of them has run from the sting of a broken relationship. They have insta-chemistry, and they act upon it. Unfortunately, tragedy strikes and they are separated, only to be reunited later when Mack acts as a personal assistant to Slade. At this point, Slade is angry with her, and the fireworks fly. They struggle against their chemistry and disdain for each other. This is the set up for the rest of the story.
Risky Play embodies so many qualities. It is funny, heart-rending, sexy, and romantic. There were times when I laughed out loud at Mack's antics with Slade. However, most of all, my heart hurt through this story, specifically for Mack. She simply wants to be "seen" in this story. She is never "seen" by her ex-fiance, by Slade, and by her father. It creates this angst that hurts your stomach as you read the story. She gives so much of herself to everyone. Yet, they take so much from her. For me, Risky Play suggests that true love comes when the person we love really understands, accepts and acknowledges the essence of ourselves. When this realization hits Slade, he becomes the quintessential book boyfriend, giving more to Mack than anyone in her life has previously. It's this quality of the story that grabbed me and pulled me into it. I simply could not put this book down.
If you love redemptive love stories, then you will LOVE Risky Play. I know I did.
Overall: 5 Star Read

DJTP

6 months ago

Risky Play by Rachel Van Dyken. I always enjoyed her books that have a spicy storyline and this one hasn't disappointed me. Liked most of the characters and the plot

Brittany0782

6 months ago

**An ARC was provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I am a huge fan of Rachel Van Dyken and always read whatever she publishes. This book was very entertaining and had me invested in the characters. It was sweet, romantic, funny, and even thoughtful at times. The H & h each had their own baggage to overcome. This book was a great read with characters I fell in love with. I am looking forward to reading more in this series!

KindleKat64

6 months ago

This book had me hooked from page 1. I loved it!!! With an RVD book, I always know I am going spend hours of enjoyment reading and being drawn into the story!! The story is fantastic as are all of the characters! I was thoroughly invested in Mack's story and the hopes she would bounce back from that initial kick to the gut she takes in the Prologue. I was truly rooting for her after that!! Then there is Slade. Ooo-la-la. If anyone can make her feel better it is the hottie she meets on the plane. I love their story and where it takes them. It definitely was not always easy as life never is, but it was so worth it!!

CherylNorris

6 months ago

I can’t even begin to describe how much I loved this book. From the very first page my attention was grabbed and I never wanted to put this book down. I loved the characters. Both of them running from something, a Chance meeting on a plane and one day of bliss. I loved the character growth of the Hero especially. Seeing him go from a bit self centered to more selfless (but still an Alpha) was great. I can’t say enough good things about this book.

Susanmc81

6 months ago

The book begins with Mackenzie being left at the alter by the man she had known all her life and thought she wanted to spend the rest of her life with. Six months later, she decides to take her honeymoon by herself. When her plane loses an engine she grabs onto her seat mate and kisses him. They end up sharing a wonderful day and night with him. She wakes up, and “Hugo” was gone. Slade is the number one soccer player in the world. He is getting away from his cheating fiancé and teammate who she cheated with. When his plane loses an engine, his beautiful seat mate grabs him and kisses him. He and “Ashley” spend a great day and night together, until he gets a phone call that changes his life. He leaves without a word to the sleeping “Ashley”, knowing he will never see her again. Of course, when his new personal assist shows up, it’s Ashley aka Mackenzie. This is a great story, both characters has a lot of issues to work through. I also love Jagger and hope he gets his own story. I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley for my honest review.

Sandy-thereadingcafe

6 months ago

3.75 stars--RISKY PLAY is the first instalment in Rachel Van Dyken’s contemporary, adult RED CARD sports, romance series. This is thirty-year olds, professional soccer player Slade Rodriguez, and heiress / sommelier Mackenzie Dupont’s story line.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Mackenzie and Slade) RISKY PLAY follows the building but contemptuous relationship between thirty-year olds, professional soccer player Slade Rodriguez, and heiress Mackenzie Dupont. Growing up as part of the Dupont Wine Dynasty didn’t protect Mackenzie from humiliation when her fiancé walked away, leaving a heart broken Mackenzie to pick up the pieces of her life. Needing time away, six months later, Mackenze went on her honeymoon alone, only to meet the man with whom she would fall in love but a man who, hit it and quit it, their first night together. Enter professional soccer player Slade Rodriguez. What ensues is the building but acrimonious relationship between Slade Rodriguez, and the potential fall-out as both Slade and Mackenzie’s pasts are determined to destroy our leading couple.
Mackenzie Dupont worked side by side with the man she was going to marry but when her father refused to let the man go, Mackenzie went in search of other employment only to come face to face with her one-night stand. Slade Rodriguez’ life fell apart while on vacation in Puerto Vallarta but blaming the woman with whom he would fall in love would cause all kinds of problems for our story line heroine.
The relationship between Mackenzie and Slade begins as a vacation affair that quickly turns into a one-night stand. Waking up alone, Mackenzie struggled with what happened and why. Slade Rodriguez’ call from home found our hero destroying what little self-esteem Mackenzie had left when he vanished in the night without explanation or good bye. The $ex scenes are passionate and intimate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to a colorful and energetic cast of secondary and supporting characters including high-profile sports agent Matt Kingston; Slade’s on and off the field nemesis Jagger Kozlov, as well as Mackenzie’s mother and father, and Mackenzie’s ex-fiance Alton Davis.
RISKY PLAY is a story of family, friendship, betrayal, power and control. The character driven premise is fast paced with a little bit of fun, snark, heart break and romance. The characters are charismatic and animated; the romance is sweet, sassy and seductive. I did have to question the number of times our heroine had tears in her eyes, wet cheeks, or was about to cry- she should have been dehydrated by the end of the story; and thirty year old virgins are only found in romance story lines ;)

Stephanie NicuNurse

6 months ago

Risky Play by Rachel Van Dyken is the first book in a brand new series by this author. The series is called Red Card, and it’s all about the soccer players! Hang on to your hats--and your hearts, guys!
Mackenzie and Slade meet on an airplane and spend an amazing day and night together. The problem? Neither one uses their real name. When tragedy strikes Slade’s family, he disappears. Weeks later, life throws them together once again. Can they help each other heal from past wounds or will they walk away for good this time?
There is a reason Rachel Van Dyken is a best-selling author. She has this talent for character and world building that truly amazes me with each and every book. And Risky Play definitely lives up to that reputation. Mackenzie is a survivor. She may be taking a break from her “real” life for a bit, but she’s a hard worker, so she gives her all--despite all the obstacles a certain soccer player throws up. And Slade isn’t really a jerk, he just acts like one sometimes. But underneath it all, he’s simply hurting. And hurt people...hurt people. Usually the ones closest to them. I adored watching each character heal, learn, and grow throughout this story. Because a damsel in distress totally annoys me, I really loved Mackenzie’s character. And a slightly tortured, tall, dark, and handsome hero? Uh...yes, please!
NICUnurse’s Rating: If a good sports romance is your jam, Risky Play is most certainly for you. The main characters have a depth to them that we’ve come to expect from Rachel Van Dyken, and there is drama aplenty. But the trademark humor is also scattered throughout the pages. I’ve yet to be disappointed by any book by this author, and Risky Play certainly did NOT disappoint! I give Risky Play by Rachel Van Dyken 4.5 stars!

heater_28

6 months ago

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Oh how I love Rachel Van Dyken! This book is just another example of this versatile author's awesomeness. This book had me from the first chapter, hence the fact I read it in nearly one sitting.
Mackenzie Dupont endures every woman's nightmare - she's left at the alter. Not only is she left at the alter, but every bit of it happens in front of a huge socialite crowd and it ends up on the front pages of gossip magazines as well. When Mack reaches her breaking point, she decides to take matters into her own hands and do something for herself - she goes on the honeymoon meant for her and Alton, solo.
Slade Rodriguez has a lot of change happening in his life at the moment. He caught his fiancee cheating with his former best friend and to top it off, she's pregnant with the friend's child. Not only that, but he's made the decision to leave his European soccer team to come play in the US, near his mother in Seattle.
When Slade and Mack initially meet on the plane, and then realize they are staying at the same hotel, they give each other fake names, Hugo and Ashley, thinking that this way the other will be none the wiser about their social statuses. The chemistry is there immediately and after a hot and steamy night together, Slade up and vanishes before Mack wakes up. This spells the end of them, right? Nope, think again.
Back in Seattle they encounter one another again and the chemistry is still there, but there are a lot of factors working against them. Alton, Mack's former fiance, isn't done with tormenting her and Slade's nemesis and new teammate, Jagger, causes problems when he makes a play for Mack. Will these two be able to trust one another and their feelings in order to really make a go of things?
I absolutely loved this book. It was everything we've come to love about RVD books; wonderful characters, a fantastic storyline and great sub-characters as well. I also got really invested in these characters and what was going to happen to them. I felt their anguish, pain, victories and elation. I can't wait to see who else gets a book in the Red Card series, because there are certainly some great candidates with both Jagger and Matt! I highly recommend picking up this awesome title!

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story about the satisfaction of plotting revenge on your ex—until he turns your world upside down again.Austin Rogers’s dreams of domestic bliss involved watching Netflix ...

Aidan O’Linn’s childhood ended the night he saw a demon kill his mother and mark
his sister, Ava, with Darkness. Since then, every three years the demons have returned to try to claim her. Living in the gritty, forgotten corners ...

Four childhood friends in present-day New Orleans are torn apart by envy, passion, and a
secret murder.Five years ago, Meredith, Brandon, Greg, and Stephen quickly discover the fragile boundaries between friendship and betrayal as they enter high school and form ...

In Hollywood’s underworld of demigods, druids, and ancient bonds, one girl has a dangerous future.Sage
is eighteen, down on her luck, and struggling to survive on the streets of Los Angeles. Everything changes the night she’s invited to a party—one ...

Sent to live with a wealthy family on a West Indies plantation, Rachel carries with
her a past shrouded in mystery. Drawn to her grit and fortitude, charming widower and fanciful inventor Henry is willing to overlook the vague explanations ...